The 2018 Hyundai Sonata lasts around 200,000 miles with some relatively minor engine sensor and battery issues reported. At $15,625 to $22,500, it’s more affordable than most other midsize sedans while still offering a ton of tech.
Is the 2018 Hyundai Sonata a Good Used Car?
- Overall Rating 8/10 – 2018 is a good year for the Hyundai Sonata since it offers improved reliability paired with a long warranty, giving it a high overall score. Owner reviews praise the stereo system, low fuel costs, as well as the smooth suspension.
- Interior, Comfort & Cargo 9/10 – Interior materials are more luxurious than other midsize sedans, the seats offer great cushions, cargo space is also great for its size.
- Reliability 8/10 – There are no widespread complaints on the 2018 Hyundai Sonata. Avoid models from 2011–2015 since they have engine failures. Models from 2016–2022 are much more reliable.
- Performance 7/10 – Performance is poor from the base & eco models, while the most powerful 4-cylinder is reasonably quick for a midsize sedan.
- Safety 8/10 – The 2018 Hyundai Sonata is a safe sedan, earning a perfect 5-star rating in government crash tests. Standard features include a rearview camera, blind spot monitoring, as well as lane change assist. Optional upgrades include automatic braking, lane keep assist, along with adaptive cruise control.
- Gas Mileage 8/10 – Fuel economy is good at up to 31 MPG, giving 573 miles of range from the 18.5 gallon tank. Gas costs are $50 cheaper than average, at $137 per month.
- Value 7/10 – The 2018 Hyundai Sonata is cheaper than other sedans, although it depreciates quickly, giving it an average value score.
Positive Owner Reviews
Negative Owner Reviews
What Do Critics Say About the Hyundai Sonata?
- Consumer Reports says the 2018 Hyundai Sonata offers a more responsive driving experience than earlier years, with average owner satisfaction scores.
- Edmunds rates the Sonata at 4.3/5, praising the spacious interior for a sedan, but doesn’t like the weak base engine.
- Kelley Blue Book users give the Sonata a 4.4/5, enjoying the advanced standard technology, but owners don’t like the lack of all-wheel-drive.
What Common Problems Does the 2018 Hyundai Sonata Have?
Common problems found on the 2018 Hyundai Sonata include check engine lights, failing to start, as well as having a hard time changing gears. Overall, these problems are a bit worse than some other sedans, yet the repair costs are cheaper when something does go wrong.
Check engine lights are the most widespread complaint from 2018 Hyundai Sonata owners in the first 20,000 miles. Sensor failures, or dirty spark plugs are the most common source of a check engine light. Replacing an oxygen sensor costs around $250, while new spark plugs are around $60 per plug installed. depending on local labor rates.
Failing to start is another issue reported by some Sonata owners at around 25,000 miles. Usually, the problem is just a simple dead battery which will need to be replaced for around $120 to $180. A few owners have found problems with the starter motor, which is around $450 to swap out.
Having a hard time changing gears also shows up on some Sonata models at around 5,000 miles. There are transmission control module software updates available which offer significant reliability improvements. Most dealerships will install the software for free, while some charge around $100.
There’s only one recall on the 2018 Hyundai Sonata, which is better than a lot of other midsize sedans. The recall covers the trunk emergency release, which may fail. Hyundai will replace the trunk latch for free on affected models.
How Long Will the 2018 Hyundai Sonata Last?
A well-maintained 2018 Hyundai Sonata can last 200,000 miles, which is around 100,000 miles shorter than the top-rated Toyota Camry. Regular annual maintenance costs are lower than many other sedans, according to data provided by Repair Pal, at $351 per year.
As a used 2018 Hyundai Sonata reaches 100,000 miles, and depending on the vehicle history, owners should be prepared to replace the valve cover gasket for $180, the brake master cylinder costing $265, as well as the radiator fan which costs around $600.
Yes very reliable and trustworthy car. Drives smoothly and comfortable. I haven't had any issues with problems starting, driving, or braking. Nothing safety or mechanical.
It has been very reliable. There is about 26000 miles on it and have never had any problems. It has a good engine.
Does not get around the best in snow otherwise no problems so far after owning a little over a year. Cannot think of anything else it sure this requires that long of an answer. It is reliable.
It is a reliable car as far as I can tell. Haven't had the car long enough to know. But nothing less than perfect so far.
No problems as of now, just when you run over something it sounds like a piece of your car hit something and got damaged.
It is very reliable. I never have any concerns if my car will not turn on, malfunction, or do anything that I expect. There are no problems.
The vehicle came with windshield wiper blades that needed to be replaced and a lock on one door that needed fixing but no major issues.
Very reliable, I have owned several Hyundai vehicles and have never had a problem with any of them. Only needed regular maintenance
How Is the Technology?
Entertainment technology is great in the 2018 Hyundai Sonata since it has a standard 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. There’s a larger 8-inch touchscreen with navigation available as an optional upgrade.
Safety technology is also excellent for a midsize sedan with a standard rearview camera, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, and lane change assist. Optional advanced safety features include rear parking sensors, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, automatic high beams, adaptive headlights, along with adaptive cruise control.
Is the 2018 Hyundai Sonata a Good Value?
Yes, the 2018 Hyundai Sonata is a good value since it is decently reliable with a long-lasting 10 year/100,000 mile warranty. The blue book fair purchase price ranges from $15,625 to $22,500, making it cheaper than a Honda Accord or Subaru Legacy. When new, the price range was $22,050 to $32,450. Depreciation is worse than some other sedans, losing about 12% of its current value per year.
What are the Different Models of the Hyundai Sonata?
There are five main models of the 2018 Hyundai Sonata offered, from the SE all the way up to the Limited. The Sport and Limited models are also available with the stronger 2.0L turbocharged engine. All Sonata models come with front-wheel drive.
SE is the entry-level model with:
- Cloth Seats
- Automatic Headlights
- Power-Folding Front Mirrors
- Power Windows and Door Locks
- Cruise Control
- 60/40-Split Folding Rear Seat
- 7-Inch Touchscreen Display
- Bluetooth Connectivity
- Six-Speaker Sound System
- Rearview Camera
Eco is a very small step up with:
- More Efficient 1.6L 4-Cylinder Engine
- Additional Under-Body Paneling
SEL is next in the lineup, adding:
- 17-inch Wheels
- Keyless Entry and Ignition
- LED Daytime Running Lights
- Hands-Free Smart Trunk Access
- Heated Side Mirrors
- Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel
- 10-Way Power Adjustable Driver Seat
- Rear Side Window Shades
- Satellite Radio
- 2-Inch Color Trip Computer
Sport has upgrades including:
- Leather Sport Seats With Cloth Inserts
- Unique Front Grille
- Rear Diffuser
- Chrome Rocker Panels
- Dual Dip Exhaust
- Flat-Bottom Steering Wheel
- Paddle Shifters
Limited is the flagship model which has:
- Full Leather Seats
- LED Headlights
- Sunroof
- Front-Seat Ventilation
- LED Tail Lights
- Heated Steering Wheel
- Automatic High Beams
- 8-Inch Touchscreen
- Wireless Smartphone Charging
- Premium Audio System
What Engines Come In the Hyundai Sonata?
- The base engine is a weak 2.4L 4-cylinder which makes 185 horsepower at up to 29 MPG. It comes standard with a six-speed automatic transmission.
- A more efficient choice is the 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder which produces 178 horsepower while getting up to 31 MPG. There’s a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
- The strongest engine is the 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder which generates 245 horsepower and gets 26 MPG. This engine has an eight-speed automatic transmission. Performance is good, taking 7.1 seconds to go from 0-60 MPH.
What Colors Does the Hyundai Sonata Come In?
How Comfortable Is the Hyundai Sonata?
The 2018 Hyundai Sonata is generally considered to be a comfortable sedan with seating for up to five passengers. Many reviewers praise its roomy and well-cushioned seats, as well as its smooth and quiet ride. The cabin is also noted for its spaciousness and overall feeling of airiness, which can contribute to a sense of comfort.
Regarding specific features, the 2018 Sonata comes with a lot of amenities that can enhance comfort, including available power-adjustable front seats with lumbar support, a panoramic sunroof, and dual-zone automatic climate control.
Passenger room is great throughout the Sonata, offering enough room for taller adults in the rear seats.
How Much Storage Space Does the Hyundai Sonata Have?
Cargo space is great in the trunk of the Sonata sedan, with more room than many other midsize sedans on the market. There’s enough space for 4-5 full size suitcases.
What Are the Differences Between Years?
The sixth generation of the Hyundai Sonata was released in 2015, and was updated for the seventh generation in 2020.
2015: Fully redesigned with new engines, exterior styling, and more technology.
2016: Standard 7-inch touchscreen on all models with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, rearview camera standard on all as well.
2017: No major changes.
2018: Minor exterior styling changes, more standard safety features, eight-speed automatic transmission on 2.0T models.
2019: No changes from earlier years.
2020: Redesigned for the seventh generation
2021: New N Line with more power than other years, minor changes to standard features.
How Does the Hyundai Sonata Compare to the Competition?
The 2018 Hyundai Sonata is a very good midsize sedan since it has a lot of standard technology and luxury materials for the price, while still having decent reliability ratings.
The Hyundai Elantra is a smaller car from Hyundai which is around $2,000 less. Where the Elantra stands out is with a sportier driving experience, while passenger room is better in the Hyundai Sonata. We recommend the Hyundai Elantra since the ownership costs are lower, although both are good choices.
The Nissan Altima is another sedan available in the same price range. Performance is a bit better in the Nissan Altima with its more powerful engine choices, while the Hyundai Sonata has a more upscale interior. We recommend the Hyundai Sonata since you get more features for your money, although both are nice cars for the 2018 model year.
Do Owners Recommend the Hyundai Sonata?
Yes, it is a very good and reliable vehicle. It rides well and smooth. Handles great. Comfortable seating.
Yes it is. Easy to drive and maneuver. I drive it all over. It handles well in the snow and rain. It is somewhat small interior but I do not have many passengers.
Yes it I feel that it is. Not great in the winter but does have nice features. Sport model is nice.
It is my all time favorite vehicle! The best car I have ever owned. I love how much room and power it has.
It is a slightly good vehicle, very quiet but overly loud when it goes over small bumps in the road.
It is a great vehicle. It is certainly roomy, and has some great safety features. Hyundai is a great company that I will remain loyal too.
Yes. There have been no major problems so far, it's updated with good features, does well on fuel and it's a good value.
Very reliable, comfortable to drive, excellent safety features. Would definitely recommend and purchase again